Rockstar Games have developed some incredible franchises, including the Red Dead Redemption and Grand Theft Auto games. The studio has released a number of acclaimed titles, but is now looking to use the profits from some of its online games to help those combatting the coronavirus pandemic. The organizations that the developer will support have not been confirmed, but it looks like it will be 5% of the online revenue from two key titles.
The developer was founded in the UK in the late-80s, and quickly established itself with the Grand Theft Auto titles that impressed the gaming world. From that point on, Rockstar Games has been on an upward trajectory despite numerous acquisitions. The founder of the company, Dan Houser, recently stepped down but there still seems to be plenty of content coming from Rockstar and they have now decided to donate some of the profits that these ventures produce.
In an official statement, Rockstar Games said, "Starting April 1st and continuing through the end of May, 5% of our revenue from purchases in our online games, GTA Online and Red Dead Online, will be donated to COVID-19 relief efforts. These funds will be used to help local communities and businesses struggling with the impact of COVID-19." This is undoubtedly a significant gesture, but some may feel it is overdue as the company has a history of not paying taxes, which in many countries goes to the health services that are combatting the pandemic.
This donation will undoubtedly help many people, and there seems to be plenty of content for players to invest in through the online features of Red Dead Online and GTA Online.